Texas Student Loans And Financial Aid Programs
Texas has several private student loan and financial aid programs that can help you pay for college. If you're going to be attending college in Texas, you need to be looking to take advantage of these programs.
These programs are designed to help make college more affordable - so that you can get the education you need. These programs can include scholarships, grants, and student loans.
Don't forget that there are Federal student loan programs available as well. You can find out more on how to get a Federal student loan here.
There is also a specific order of operations to pay for college that we recommend students follow. These programs specific to the State of Texas can help you to avoid borrowing more money than you need to.
Texas Student Loan Programs
Texas has a private student loan program called the College Access Loan. The College Access Loan Program provides alternative educational loans to Texas students who are unable to meet the cost of attendance. These loans have a low fixed interest rate and great repayment terms. Learn about the College Access Loan here.
Texas residents also have access to Brazos, a non profit that lends exclusively to Texas residents. By using their tax-exempt status, they are able to offer low-cost loans! Check out their options here.
Remember, there are still Federal student loans available to students who attend college in Texas.
If you're just looking for private student loan options, we recommend:
- Credible - Like the Kayak of student loans, they help you shop around and compare options. Try Credible here.
- Commonbond - One of the best private student loan lenders. Try Commonbond here.
- Brazos Parent Loans - If you're a parent looking to borrow, look at Brazos here.
You can also check out our list of the best private student loans here.
Texas Scholarship Programs
Texas has several scholarships available to students who want to attend college in the state.
The Top 10% Scholar Program
The Top 10% Scholarship encourage students who graduate in the top 10% of their high school class to attend a Texas public institution of higher education.
Note: this has been changed to an automatic program for all public colleges in Texas.
Learn more about the Top 10% Scholar Program.
Texas Grant Programs
Texas also has a grant program to provide need based financial aid to Texas residents.
Grants are one of the best forms of financial aid because, in most circumstances, you don't have to pay the money back.
Texas Public Education Grant
This grant provides financial aid to needy residents. Each college or university makes its own determination in awarding the grant.
You can learn more about the Texas Public Education Grant.
Texas Educational Opportunity Grant
The purpose of the program is to provide grant aid to financially needy students enrolled in Texas public two-year colleges.
Students who continue in college and who meet program academic standards can receive awards for up to 75 semester credit hours, for four years, or until they receive an associate's degree, whichever comes first. Eligibility ends once 75 semester credit hours have been attempted unless the student is granted a hardship extension.
Learn more about the Texas Educational Opportunity Grant.
Other Options
If you already have student loans and are looking for options as a Texas resident, check out our Texas Student Loan Forgiveness Program page. That page has all the different options available to Texas residents to potentially get some of your student loan debt forgiven.
You might also look at refinancing your student loans and saving money in interest while also potentially lowering your payment. Check out our guide on the Best Places To Refinance Your Student Loans.
If you're looking to save for college in Texas, check out the Texas 529 Plan and College Savings Guide.
Finally, check out the other student loan and financial aid programs by state.
